GUWAHATI: Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh on Thursday sought the Centre’s help to control the wildfire that broke out at the picturesque Dzukou valley, a popular trekking destination, located atop 2452-meter along the borders of Manipur and Nagaland, on Tuesday.

Cautioning that the wildfire may soon reach Manipur’s thick forest Koziirii, Singh called for help as he took an aerial survey on Thursday morning. Though the source of the fire was yet to be ascertained, the wildfire has been quickly spreading into the valley with dry grass fueling the wildfire.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has also deployed a Mi-17V5 chopper equipped with a Bambi bucket into service as disaster management personnel struggled to control the wildfire at Dzukou valley.

Sharing images of the fire on Twitter, Singh said, “If the wind direction going to the southern side, there is a high possibility of entering in the thickest forest called Koziirii in Manipur. The fire has spread quite extensively and caused serious damage to this part of the mountain range. The fire service, forest official and volunteers are reaching the site. Sending more personnel to the spot and seeking help from concerned authorities to stop the spread of the fire and save the deep forest portion of the valley.”

Video of the widlfire at Dzukou valley:

He tweeted: “The wildfire at Dzuko valley is very alarming now and this needs immediate attention before it spreads towards Mount. Iso. Also requesting the NDRF to assist us to contain the situation. @PMOIndia @HMOIndia.”

The fire was raging so much that it could be seen from Nagaland capital Kohima, about 30km away. Sources said the main viewpoint which is frequented by tourists has already been scorched in the fire.

Dzukou valley is a popular trekking spot known for its seasonal flowers and bio-diversity. Enthusiasts visit the valley to view the pink and purple flowering on the hills that also houses endangered tragopans and other species.